HIDDEN TREASURES, Museum of Lead Mining, is a Visit Scotland 4 Star Visitor Attraction set in the picturesque village of Wanlockhead, which at 461m / 1531 feet above sea level is the highest village in Scotland. The village is set amid the Lowther Hills, directly on the Southern Upland Way just minutes from the amazing Mennock Pass, which offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland and only 9 miles from the M74.

Uncover our treasures including a real 18th century lead mine set deep in the hillside where visitors can experience the thrill of going underground. Make your way along village paths to the two miners’ cottages and see how the miners really lived before exploring the second oldest subscription Library in Europe, which has recently gained Recognition status as being a collection of National Significance. Enter the Visitor Centre to discover a fantastic display of rocks, minerals, gold, mining and local artefacts

During July & August you can search for hidden gold – Yes – Real Gold - by trying your luck at Gold Panning. Our enthusiastic and friendly guides will help to make your visit a day to remember.

If you are looking for a day out with a real difference then look no further than HIDDEN TREASURES, Museum of Lead Mining at Wanlockhead.

GOLD PANNING

Whether you are serious about gold panning or just want to try your hand, we can help. Gold Panning taster sessions are available daily throughout July & August and also during major Bank Holiday weekends. Follow the directions of the Gold Panner and we guarantee that you will find REAL gold that you can take away with you and we will even send out a certificate confirming that you found gold at Wanlockhead!

If the bug catches then you can hire a gold pan and wander off into the local rivers and burns to try your luck, we won’t guarantee success but what nicer way to spend a day than by a burbling river in the Scottish hills.

For the more serious prospectors we run regular 5 hour gold panning courses with an experienced gold panner or 2 day courses with Vincent Thurkettle (former World Champion Gold Panner and President of the World Gold Panning Association).

Why not organise an evening out with friends and have your very own group evening tours and then a bite to eat in our tearoom. Contact us for more information.

Contact information, Click here

EDUCATION

The Museum is geared up to provide Teachers and Group Leaders with useful and comprehensive teaching materials, which meet the requirements of the National Guidelines, but which can also be tailored to meet individual needs.

Please take our Educational Tour and get a taste of what we have at the Museum for groups of all ages and ability levels.

Within the Gift Shop, situated within the Visitor Centre, you will find a great selection of gifts, books, toys and gold panning equipment. We source many items from local craft makers and suppliers such as honey from local heather bees and locally made jewellery. You will also find a wide selection of rocks and minerals including some which have been found locally, a must for rock collectors.

Visit our Tearoom and try one of our scones, freshly baked every morning, with a pot of tea or a coffee, or stay a while longer and choose from a wide selection of meals, homemade soup, sandwiches or a Panini.

We are proud to announce that Hidden Treasures has been awarded Scottish Tourism's 4 Star Award.

If you have any comments about the site or your visit to the Museum, please contact: miningmuseum@hotmail.com and tell us what you think! We will be delighted to hear from you.
This Web site is supported by Dumfries and Galloway Council and The European Union Objective 5b Programme